It is with profound grief that I learnt of the death of Professor Jakes Gerwel.
Prof Gerwel played many significant roles in our society, from a social and political activist, academic to administrator and businessman. His contribution to the Mandela Administration as Director General in President Mandela’s office was significant as were his contributions as a board member and chairman of many business houses, including many of our state assets as well as the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory.
I was fortunate to have shared both a personal and business relationship with him and it is one that I will always value and cherish.
Prof Gerwel was a true son of South Africa who was a servant of the people. He leaves a deep void which will be very difficult to fill.
My heartfelt condolences go to his wife Phoebe and his children Jessie and Heinrich and the entire Gerwel family. I wish them strength and courage during this difficult time of bereavement.
Anant Singh
28 November 2012
